Surgical robotics archives vol.8
Following a series of successful articles about the early days of surgical robotics (Vol.1, Vol.2, Vol.3,
Vol.4, Vol.5, Vol.6, Vol.7), here is another forgotten story.
"Six children ages 2 to 10 years harbouring deep brain tumours were
operated upon using a computer and robotic assisted system. A radical
excision was achieved in all cases with no significant morbidity or any
mortality. The system consists of an interactive 3 dimensional (3D)
display of computed tomography image contours and digitized cerebral
angiograms taken using the BRW stereotactic frame. The surgical
retractor is held and manipulated using a PUMA 200 robot. The position
and orientation of the surgical retractor is displayed on the 3D
display. Preoperative planning and simulation are important features of
this system. Movement of the brain following tumour and cerebrospinal
fluid removal is substantial so the tumour removal is based on visually
defined margins. Enhanced computer graphics and robotic devices are
important adjuncts to neurosurgical procedures and will find increasing
use in the future."
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